Discovering the Latest Scientific Pathways on Tissue Spheroids: Opportunities to Innovate

Tissue spheroids consist of a three-dimensional model of cells which is capable of imitating the complicated composition of healthy and unhealthy human tissue. Due to their unique properties, they can bring innovative solutions to tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, where they can be used as building blocks for the formation of organ and tissue models used in drug experimentation. Considering the rapid transformation of the health industry, it is crucial to assess the research dynamics of this field to support the development of innovative applications. In this research, a scientometric analysis was performed as part of a Competitive Technology Intelligence methodology, to determine the main applications of tissue spheroids. Papers from Scopus and Web of Science published between 2000 and 2019 were organized and analyzed. In total, 868 scientific publications were identified, and four main categories of application were determined. Main subject areas, countries, cities, authors, journals, and institutions were established. In addition, a cluster analysis was performed to determine networks of collaborations between institutions and authors. This article provides insights into the applications of cell aggregates and the research dynamics of this field, which can help in the decision-making process to incorporate emerging and innovative technologies in the health industry.